Jason Barney grew up in northern Vermont and graduated from Missisquoi Valley Union High School, where he now teaches. Upon graduation from the College of St. Joseph's in Rutland, he ran for public office, and between the years of 1997 and 2002, he represented the towns of Franklin and Highgate in the Vermont House of Representatives. When he left the legislature, he had attained the position of vice-chairman of the Education Committee. He then moved into a career in education, and his love of local history led him to join the Swanton Historical Society. Presently, he lives in northwest Vermont with his wife, Christine Eldred, and son, Samuel. They own three acres not far from Lake Champlain. Jason loves to garden, read, write and teach.

A huge New England Patriots fan, Jason spends part of his free time reading and taking notes on Star Trek books.